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 Over six decades of steering the Berkshire Hathaway empire, 94-year-old billionaire Warren Buffett made several investments that earned the company hundreds of billions of dollars—most famously in Apple, BYD, and Coca-Cola.

On May 3rd, Buffett officially announced he would step down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway by the end of this year, marking the end of his 60-year reign at the helm of the investment conglomerate.

Often hailed as one of the greatest investors in modern history, Buffett took control of Berkshire Hathaway in 1965, back when it was a struggling textile mill. Over time, he reshaped it into a multi-sector powerhouse through acquisitions and strategic investments. Today, he owns approximately $169 billion in assets—$160 billion of which is in Berkshire stock. The company’s market cap has surpassed $1.16 trillion.

Buffett's remarkable track record has earned him legendary status on Wall Street and the nickname "The Oracle of Omaha"—a tribute to his hometown, where he was born, raised, and spent decades working.

Here are some of Buffett’s most successful and regretful investments throughout his storied career:

Profitable Investments

1. National Indemnity and National Fire & Marine

Insurance has always been a key pillar for Berkshire. In 1967, Buffett acquired National Indemnity and National Fire & Marine for $8.6 million—among his earliest ventures into the insurance industry.

The float (premium money collected before claims are paid) became a vital funding source for Berkshire’s other investments and helped drive the company’s growth. By Q1 of this year, Berkshire’s total float reached $173 billion.

2. American Express, Coca-Cola, and Bank of America

Buffett bought large stakes in these companies during times of turmoil—market crashes or corporate scandals. These holdings have grown by over $100 billion since acquisition, excluding the substantial dividends Berkshire has collected.

3. Apple

Despite his longstanding reluctance to invest in tech, Buffett began buying Apple shares in 2016, saying he viewed it as a consumer brand with exceptional customer loyalty. At its peak, the investment was worth over $174 billion, before Berkshire gradually began reducing its stake.

4. BYD

Following advice from Charlie Munger, Buffett bet big on Chinese EV company BYD in 2008 with a $232 million investment. At one point, this stake grew to over $9 billion. Berkshire has since trimmed its position and now holds $1.8 billion in BYD stock.

5. See’s Candies

The 1972 See’s Candies acquisition was a turning point in Buffett’s investment philosophy. Munger convinced him to focus on quality businesses with competitive advantages, not just cheap ones. Berkshire bought the company for $25 million and, by 2011, had earned $1.65 billion in pre-tax profits from it.

6. Berkshire Hathaway Energy

The energy sector has been a stable cash generator. In 2000, Berkshire bought MidAmerican Energy for $2.1 billion. It was later renamed and expanded to include PacifiCorp and NV Energy. In 2024 alone, this division brought in over $3.7 billion in profit.

Costly Mistakes

1. Berkshire Hathaway (the textile company)

Buffett has called his original 1962 purchase of the Berkshire textile firm his “worst investment.” The business struggled and ultimately shut down in 1985. Ironically, the stock has since soared from around $7–8 to over $800,000, making it a “bad decision that turned out well.”

2. Dexter Shoe Co

In 1993, Buffett paid $433 million in Berkshire stock to acquire Dexter Shoe. He later admitted this was a huge blunder—he gave away 1.6% of Berkshire’s equity for a company that turned out to be worthless.

Buffett has also expressed regret over missed opportunities. He passed on early investments in Amazon, Google, and Microsoft—costing Berkshire billions. He also abandoned plans to buy 100 million shares of Walmart, now worth nearly $10 billion.

Before the pandemic, Buffett soured on bank stocks, dumping 500 million shares of Wells Fargo amid ongoing scandals—many sold at around $30 each. He also sold JP Morgan shares for under $100. Both have more than doubled since.

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In a world bustling with activity and responsibilities, the pursuit of happiness and comfort remains a universal aspiration. The desire to lead a life filled with joy, contentment, and ease is deeply ingrained in human nature. While the definitions of happiness and comfort can vary greatly from person to person, the underlying goal remains the same – to create a life that brings fulfillment and tranquility.

**The Quest for Happiness: Unraveling the Key Ingredients**

Happiness, often described as a state of emotional well-being, encompasses feelings of positivity, satisfaction, and joy. It is a holistic experience that extends beyond mere pleasure, involving a sense of purpose and meaning in one's actions and relationships. Research suggests that personal relationships, a sense of achievement, and a balance between work and leisure are essential components of a happy life.

Numerous studies also emphasize the significance of gratitude, mindfulness, and acts of kindness in cultivating happiness. Practicing gratitude encourages us to focus on the positive aspects of life, fostering a sense of appreciation for what we have. Mindfulness, on the other hand, teaches us to live in the present moment, freeing us from dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Engaging in acts of kindness, whether small or grand, not only benefits others but also contributes to a sense of fulfillment and happiness within ourselves.

**The Pursuit of Comfort: Creating a Haven of Tranquility**

Comfort, often synonymous with ease and relaxation, revolves around the idea of feeling at home within oneself and one's environment. It involves surrounding oneself with physical and emotional elements that contribute to a sense of well-being and security. A comfortable life may encompass a cozy living space, enjoyable hobbies, and a balanced routine that promotes rest and relaxation.

In the modern world, technology plays a significant role in enhancing comfort. From smart homes that adjust to our preferences to the convenience of online shopping and digital entertainment, technology has woven itself seamlessly into our pursuit of comfort. However, it is essential to strike a balance and ensure that technological advancements do not replace genuine human connections or moments of solitude and introspection.

**Navigating the Path to Well-Being**

The journey toward a life of happiness and comfort is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It is a unique and deeply personal journey, influenced by cultural, societal, and individual factors. The key lies in self-awareness – understanding one's values, priorities, and aspirations. This self-awareness serves as a compass, guiding individuals toward choices and actions that align with their well-being.

While external circumstances undoubtedly impact our happiness and comfort, it is essential to recognize that these aspects are also within our control. Cultivating a positive mindset, fostering healthy relationships, practicing self-care, and nurturing personal growth are all proactive steps that contribute to a fulfilling life.

Ultimately, the pursuit of happiness and comfort is a lifelong endeavor, characterized by self-discovery and growth. It involves making conscious choices that reflect our values and desires, as well as adapting to the ever-changing landscape of our lives. As we embrace this pursuit, let us remember that happiness and comfort are not distant destinations; they are ongoing experiences woven into the fabric of our existence. By nurturing our well-being, we can create a life that is not only joyful and comfortable but also meaningful and fulfilling.